Hello Guys,

Y'all may think I'm nuts, but I'm building my 7 yr old his first flyrod. I bought the SC Ultra Legend 7'6" 5wt blank , Struble chrome U3 skeleton w/myrtle insert, H&H (Short 61/2") Rev. Half-wells grip, and Pac Bay SF chrome guides. That along with the Pflueger Supreme #1856 reel should be something he'll get plenty of enjoyment out of. (Not to mention I'll get my Loomis GLX back for myself again!) Anyhow, this is the third flyrod I've ever built so I'm definitely a greenhorn here. However, I thought I'd ask the pro's for some sage advice on thread color choices/combinations/types for this blank. Secondly, in the past I've opted for black rubber winding checks. I'd like to try a nickel silver type this time around. The butt diameter is .322. What size should I be looking for, especially since I'm using a 6 1/2 inch grip length? The next closest size down that Hook and Hackle carried was .313. Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated!

Mike

Hi Mike:

Just fit your cork and reel seat in place, use a caliper or micrometer and measure blank next to cork. On n/s w/c you usually go for actual size or next one up, they don't stretch like the rubber w/c's. You can ream them just a little if necessary, but not much. Good Luck!!

I did one a few months ago with Gudebrod green 5896 and 2 turn trim of copper 9396 no color preserver. Looks great I think.

I made my two grandsons fly rods at that age & I asked them what was their favorate color. One picked red & the other blue

Thanks fellas, for all of your excellent recommendations. Dick, I especially like your idea. Can't understand why I hadn't thought of it myself though. Knowing my son, I shudder at the thought of what his answer will be! Take care!

Sincerely,
Mike

Have never used them, don't like the looks.